As the 2026 World Cup inches closer, the USMNT roster is starting to come into focus, at least at most positions. While the goalkeeper position is a little murky, fans can feel somewhat comfortable with how things look at center back. At the moment, the U.S. could just about roll out three sets of center backs and feel comfortable doing so. That’s not to say the USMNT has loads of world-class defenders, but the combination of depth, talent, and experience should limit any serious concerns about center back less than a year away from the 2026 World Cup.
The starters
Given his emergence at Crystal Palace over the past two seasons and his heroics throughout the Gold Cup this past summer, Chris Richards can be penciled in as a starter during the 2026 World Cup.